IRONMAN Steps into Marathon with Iconic New Zealand Event

IRONMAN today announced that it has acquired New Zealand’s biggest road race, the Auckland Marathon.

The race, which dates back to 1936, attracted more than 16,000 participants last year with the course taking in the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge.

“IRONMAN in the Asia Pacific region operates several events other than purely IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3, both in other triathlon and multisports,” said Geoff Meyer, Chief Executive Officer of IRONMAN Asia Pacific.

“We are always looking for opportunities to further develop our brand and have been looking to do more in New Zealand. Adding the Auckland Marathon does just that. This is an iconic sporting event and one in which we believe we can help grow and develop further.”

The Auckland Marathon is New Zealand’s premier road race that is fast gaining an international reputation. It is made up of five events – a full marathon, half marathon, quarter marathon, 5km Challenge and Kids Marathon, this year to be staged on 2 November.

“The event has been growing over the past 14 years since the regular introduction of the unique element of crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge,” said Stephen Brown, Managing Director of the Auckland Marathon.

“We believe this acquisition is a major opportunity for Auckland. IRONMAN is a powerful international brand and brings significant and immediate global reach to the event.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for both the event and further recognition of Auckland as a host of world class events.”

The existing Auckland Marathon team will continue to manage this year’s event, working closely with the operations team at the IRONMAN New Zealand office.